Saturday, May 1, 2021

Bailey, Fernandez, Dinowitz Hold Food Giveaway Thursday in Front of Lexi Bar on East 204th Street

 


The food giveaway was scheduled for Wednesday, but the pantry was not ready so it was postponed to the next day Thursday. Since the elected officials had other things planned for on Thursday their staff members filled in led by Assemblywoman Fernandez's Chief of Staff Dylan Tragni. 

There were one-hundred bags loaded with produce and a variety of canned and packaged goods weighing about twenty-five pounds each with enough food for several days. Without any elected officials to talk to the people the food giveaway seemed to be done much faster this time. 



Chief of Staff to Assemblywoman Nathalia Fernandez, Dylan Tragni filled in for his boss as he placed this heavy bag of food into the woman's wagon for her. 

Bronx Democratic Party - In Memory of of Sylvia Lask

 

 


We are deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of our Vice Chair, Sylvia Lask. She was a lifelong mental health advocate and community leader who fought tirelessly to improve the lives of others throughout the Bronx. Her commitment to serving her community was unmatched. She will be remembered for her life-saving work advancing mental health access and the love and compassion she shared throughout her life.

Sylvia dedicated her life to being a powerful voice for change and fought for legislation that paved the way for monumental changes in mental health policy in New York. From her tireless advocacy on Timothy’s Law and the New York State Mental Health Education Law to her work organizing the annual September 11 memorial ceremony in the Bronx, she made a lasting difference in the lives of countless New Yorkers.

Sylvia was a vital member of various boards throughout the Bronx, including the Jacobi and North Central Bronx Hospital Community Advisory Board, the Board of Visitors of the Bronx Psychiatric Center, the Co-op City Community Board, and the Bronx Democratic Party County Committee. Most recently, she served as the Government Affairs Chair for the Mental Health Association in New York State.

Our hearts go out to Sylvia’s family and her loved ones during this difficult time. She will be missed by our entire Bronx Dems family and the Bronx as a whole.












Senator Rivera Announces Ranked Choice Endorsement in the 14th Bronx Council District

 

 On June 22, the City of New York will elect new City Council leadership in an historic ranked choice election. State Senator Gustavo Rivera is working to educate voters about ranked choice voting and the opportunity that the Bronx has to elect bold leaders. To that end, in the 14th City Council District, which includes Kingsbridge Heights, University Heights, and communities in the West Bronx, Senator Rivera announces his endorsement of Adolfo Abreu as his first choice and Pierina Sanchez as his second choice.

"Bold, transformative leadership is long overdue in the 14th City Council District. Since an early age, Adolfo has proven to be a dedicated grassroots organizer and a bonafide champion for the people of the Bronx. I am confident that he will bring thousands of his neighbors' voices with him to the City Council and will continue to be a steadfast partner in delivering for our borough," said State Senator Gustavo Rivera. "Pierina's extensive experience in public service and progressive values make her a natural leader. Both of these candidates have deep ties to our community and would be transformative as leaders for this district."

With ranked choice voting, New Yorkers will have the opportunity to rank up to five candidates in order of preference. New Yorkers don’t only need to be aware of the new ranked choice system of voting, but informed and empowered to fully participate in the process. Ranked endorsements reflect the choice every voter will have to make and highlight those candidates who will work collaboratively to lead and serve in the Bronx.

“I’m so grateful to be State Senator Gustavo Rivera’s first choice for City Council in District 14. Senator Rivera has fought to make quality residential and public housing and universal healthcare a reality and to reign in the ills of the criminal justice system," said Adolfo Abreu. "I saw first hand his passion and commitment to Bronx residents when I served as his Field Director in 2016. Together, we overcame the real estate interests that tried to block his reelection. He has continued to model true partnership with tenant and community organizations in Senate District 33. I look forward to governing together to build a Bronx where every person can thrive.” 

Joint Statement from local Congress Member and Legislators abt Stringer's Mayoral Campaign


Joint statement from Congress Member Adriano Espaillat, NYS Senator JosĂ© M. Serrano, NYS Assembly Member Carmen De La Rosa, and NYC City Council Members Mark Levine and Diana Ayala:

“We rescind our endorsement of Scott Stringer’s mayoral campaign.” 



Jeff, my world is coming apart all my so-called friends are abandoning me, you are still with me Jeff right? 

Scott I was never with you from the beginning of the race since you endorsed Biaggi.

246 Days and Counting, A Thought?

 


Is this what Mayor Bill de Blasio is thinking?

Poor Scott Stringer, he was once considered a top candidate to replace me as mayor next year. He had several State Senate candidates and other elected officials behind him. Scott even had the Working Families party helping him in the Democratic Primary. Now all candidate Stringer has left is the UFT behind him. Republian Mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa should have a field day with that one. Scotty to Captain Mulgrew. 'I've lost the others, do you are still have me in your tractor beam, the life support system is running out on this campaign'? 


Senator Luis Sepulveda - District 32 Community Update

Luis R. SepĂșlveda

Dear Neighbor, 

I hope you and your family are healthy and staying safe. In honor of Earth Day, the NY State Senate passed groundbreaking environmental legislation that would ban the use of small plastic bottles in hotels, prohibit state forests from being used for gas production, and provide that sales of new passenger cars be zero emissions by 2035, among many other important pieces of legislation. We also celebrated #WaterWeek by expanding water protections in the state of New York. This legislation will add new chemicals to the list of emerging contaminants, require public parks to test for lead contamination in drinking water, and ban the use of coal tar to limit groundwater contamination, among other bills aimed to improve the state’s water quality. These bills are a necessary step in ensuring that all New Yorkers have access to a healthy environment and safe, clean water.

I am excited to announce that my bill (S2211) to prohibit double-bunking in state correctional facilities has passed. I will keep fighting to make tangible changes to prevent prison overcrowding and restore humane conditions for incarcerated individuals. In addition, my bill (S2209) also passed the Mental Health Committee, which would require the Office of Addiction Services and Supports to monitor programs providing treatment to incarcerated individuals in correctional facilities and provide an annual report. 

On Thursday, my team and I held an informational tax season webinar that covered important tax updates on unemployment benefits and stimulus checks. Watch it before the IRS filing date on May 17th here.

Positive COVID-19 cases are continuing to rise citywide, but especially here in the Bronx. As of Thursday, April 29, the COVID-19 positivity rate in the Bronx was 1.95%. It is important to stay vigilant of this virus and take precautions to keep our friends, neighbors, and families safe. Wear a mask, wash your hands, practice social distancing, and get vaccinated. 

My office continues to work to bring more critical resources to Senate District 32 and my team is assisting constituents with unemployment claims, SNAP and Cash Assistance, Medicaid, landlord-tenant issues, among other things. Although our office is currently closed due to the spike of COVID-19 cases, my staff continues to work remotely. To contact my office, please call 718-991-3161 or email team@senatorsepulveda.com. 

Eligibility Updates: All state-run mass vaccination sites will be accepting walk-ins for anyone age 16 and older. This includes Yankee Stadium, which is administering Pfizer vaccines in the Bronx. As a reminder, 16- and 17-year olds can only receive the Pfizer vaccine.

The City has also expanded its walk-up appointment pilot for all New Yorkers age 16 and older at City-run sites.

  • Bronx location sites: 
  •  - South Bronx Educational Campus: 701 St. Ann’s Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10455 (Moderna)
  • - Northeast Bronx YMCA (Edenwald): 1250 E 229th Street, Bronx, NY, 10468 (Moderna)
  • - Co-Op City Dreiser Community Center: 177 Dreiser Loop, Bronx, NY, 10475 (Moderna)  
  • - Bathgate Contract Postal Station: 4006 3rd Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10457 (Moderna)
  • - West Bronx Gymnasium: 1527 Jesup Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10452 (Moderna)
  • - Lehman College - Apex Center: 250 Bedford Park Blvd W, Bronx, NY 10468 (Pfizer)

Homebound New York City residents can register here to be contacted by the City regarding eligibility for the in-home vaccination program. To schedule an appointment by phone, please call 877-VAX-4NYC or 877-829-4692.


THE 2021-22 ADOPTED BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS

BOOSTING TENANT AND HOMEOWNER RELIEF

- $2.4 billion in COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program with 12 months’ arrears for rent and utilities, three prospective months of rent, a year of eviction protection, and eligibility of up to 120% AMI, regardless of immigration status.
- $100 million to convert hotel and vacant property into affordable housing.
- $200 million for NYCHA and $125 million for public housing across New York State.


HELPING FAMILIES AND WORKERS

- A $2.4 billion infusion to the childcare system to increase access and support providers.
- A $2.1 billion Excluded Worker Fund to provide one-time unemployment benefits to workers who lost employment or income during the COVID-19 pandemic but were ineligible for Unemployment Insurance or other federal benefits such as stimulus payments. The benefits program will be administered by the Department of Labor. Applicants must be able to verify their identity, residency, and work-related eligibility. Based on the ability to demonstrate work-related eligibility, applicants may be able to qualify for one of two benefit tiers.

Education/NYC Public Schools

  • 3-K for All programs will be available in all 32 NYC school districts this fall and the 3-K application deadline for NYC children born in 2018 has been extended to May 28. Visit http://nyc.gov/3K to learn more and apply.
  • Starting on Monday, April 26, families will be able to register for Summer Rising, a free summer program for all New York students grades K-8 for any child who wants to participate. Learn more at https://www.schools.nyc.gov/enrollment/summer.
  • The Einstein Enrichment Program will once again be offering a free three-week academic enrichment and science exposure program to prepare students to take the Specialized High School Admissions Test (SHSAT), as well as participate in science exploration, group counseling, high school readiness activities, and mentoring. The program dates are July 12th to July 29th and sessions will be virtual, Monday through Thursday. The deadline to apply is Tuesday, June 1, 2021. For more information, please contact Alicia Martinez (Alicia.martinez@einsteinmed.org) or you can call the office to speak to an EEP Team member at 718-430-4166.
  • New York Institute of Technology: The Robert Noyce STEM Teacher Scholarship provides a full-tuition scholarship for people interested in becoming teachers of STEM subjects. The scholarship is available to anyone who has an undergraduate degree in a STEM field. It leads to a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree that qualifies graduates to teach science or mathematics in secondary schools. The Robert Noyce Scholarship, therefore, offers candidates an opportunity for personal advancement and for launching a rewarding career in education at no cost. For more information or to apply, visit the link here.
  • The Bard Prison Initiative (BPI) has announced the launch of its third tuition-free microcollege, which will open in Harlem this fall. This new microcollege will enroll students who are formerly incarcerated or directly impacted by the justice system and others who aspire to careers in advocacy, community building, or social justice. The Bard Microcollege for Just Community Leadership will be housed at the Countee Cullen branch of the New York Public Library on 136th St. Find more information about the program here.
  • The New York State Youth Leadership Council (NYSYLC) launched the undocu grad school guide for undocumented students thinking about grad school. They will be hosting an Instagram live to discuss the guide and hear from undocumented students about their experiences going to grad school. In addition, NYSYLC is awarding 11 scholarships and 3 fellowships. The deadline is May 14, 2021. Apply at NYSYLC.org/scholarship.

On Thursday, I joined Urban Health Plan, NYS Lt. Governor Kathy Hochul, Councilmember Salamanca, and Assemblymember Burgos on a tour of the Simpson Pavilion vaccination site in the Bronx. Please get vaccinated!.

District Office:

900 Rogers Place Bronx, NY 10459  718-991-3161

Governor Cuomo Updates New Yorkers on State's Progress during COVID-19 Pandemic April 30, 2021

 

2,837 Patient Hospitalizations Statewide

ICU Patients Drop to 666 — Lowest Since November 27

Intubations Drop to 423 — Lowest Since December 3

Statewide Positivity Rate Drops to 1.76%—Lowest Since November 3

Statewide 7-Day Positivity Rate Drops to 1.93% — Lowest Since November 6; 25 Straight Days of Decline

44 COVID-19 Deaths in New York State Yesterday


 Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today updated New Yorkers on the state's progress during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

"We've said from the very beginning that the data and the science would guide our reopening plan, and with the positivity and hospitalization rates on a consistent downward trend we are able to relax restrictions even further," Governor Cuomo said. "This is all good news, but we're not out of the woods yet. Our progress is directly affected by what we do and how we act, so we must continue with the precautions we know work to stop the spread if we want to beat COVID once and for all — wearing masks, staying socially distanced and, most importantly, getting vaccinated."

Today's data is summarized briefly below:

  • Test Results Reported - 220,074
  • Total Positive - 3,868
  • Percent Positive - 1.76%
  • 7-Day Average Percent Positive - 1.93%
  • Patient Hospitalization - 2,837 (-97)
  • Net Change Patient Hospitalization Past Week - -550
  • Patients Newly Admitted - 366
  • Hospital Counties - 53
  • Number ICU - 666 (-25)
  • Number ICU with Intubation - 423 (-2)
  • Total Discharges - 175,506 (+379)
  • Deaths - 44
  • Total Deaths - 41,992

State Senators Alessandra Biaggi, Gustavo Rivera, and Julia Salazar, Assembly members Yuh-Line Niou and Catalina Cruz, Rep. Jamaal Bowman, and WFP Pull Their Endorsement of Scott Stringer for Mayor.

 


Only one day after State Senator Jessica Ramos pulled her endorsement of mayoral candidate Scott Stringer over carges of sexual abuse, the dam broke as the rest of the Progressive legislators backing him, State Senators Alessandra Biaggi (who Stringer campaigned vigorously for, as seen in the photo above), Gustavo Rivera, and Julia Salazar, Assembly members Yuh-Line Niou and Catalina Cruz, Congressman Jamaal Bowman, pulled their endorsement of Stringer for Mayor. “We are rescinding our endorsement of Scott Stringer’s mayoral campaign,” the legislators wrote. The working Families Party followed suite also rescinding its endorsement of Stringer in the June Democratic Primary.


NYC ADVISORY COMMISSION ON PROPERTY TAX REFORM TO RELAUNCH PUBLIC HEARINGS ON ITS TEN PRELIMINARY RECOMMENDATIONS

 

Staten Island and Brooklyn virtual borough hearings scheduled for May

 The New York City Advisory Commission on Property Tax Reform today announced it would relaunch the public hearing process on its 10 preliminary recommendations, starting with virtual hearings for Staten Island on May 11 and Brooklyn on May 27.  Both hearings will begin at 6:00pm.  Initially delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the hearings will resume virtually. The Commission will be holding virtual hearings for all five boroughs and will be scheduling hearings in other boroughs soon.

On January 31, 2020, the Commission released a Preliminary Report with 10 initial recommendations to make NYC’s Property Tax System simpler, clearer and fairer.  The Commission was formed by Mayor de Blasio and City Council Speaker Corey Johnson in 2018 with a mandate to reform NYC’s property tax system while ensuring there is no reduction in revenue used to fund essential City services.  An in-person hearing following the report’s release was initially scheduled for March 12, 2020 in Staten Island, but later postponed due to COVID-19.   

 

The Commission is soliciting input from the public on the 10 initial recommendations in the Preliminary Report, specifically whether they would achieve the goals of a fairer system, would be improved by certain modifications, or should be enhanced with additional recommendations.  To testify, speakers may register at the Commission’s website.  Anyone wishing to testify must register no later than 24-hours in advance.  Following registration, speakers will receive further instructions.    

 

Speakers may (but need not) submit their presentations ahead of time by emailing them to PropTaxInfo@propertytaxcommission.nyc.gov or uploading them through an online portal.   The portal and email address may also be used by those who are unable to attend but wish to submit testimony. 

 

To request interpretation services please email PropTaxInfo@propertytaxcommission.nyc.gov or call 212-676-3072 by 5:00pm three business days before the hearing.  For ASL, or to request an accommodation for a disability, please email or call by 5:00pm five business days before the hearing.

 

Senator Biaggi's Week in Review: 4/26/21- 4/30/21

 

Senator Alessandra Biaggi

Dear Community,

This week, Riverdale has experienced a horrific string of hate crimes and vandalism directed towards places of Jewish worship. Last weekend my office was notified of the vandalism of four local synagogues in Riverdale, and unfortunately we have seen a continuation of attacks throughout the week. I extend my deepest condolences to the Jewish residents of Riverdale, and acknowledge the pain that these acts of vandalism and hate have caused for the entire Riverdale community. 

I want to reiterate my strong condemnation for these acts fueled by hate and antisemitism. Every person — regardless of their religion, race, gender, or creed — deserves to be treated with respect and the ability to attend their place of worship without fear. Hate crimes of any kind are unacceptable and will not be tolerated in District 34, and I condemn any iteration of white supremacy or bigotry. 

I extend my gratitude to Captain Emilio Melendez, the NYPD investigators, the NYS Hate Crime Task Force, the Guardian Angels, and the rabbis and community leaders who are involved in ensuring that justice is served. This is a true demonstration of unity and is an example of the resilience of Riverdale. 

My office continues to be in close communication with local leaders and the 50th precinct to ensure the safety of the Riverdale community. I urge that anyone with relevant information reach out to the 50th precinct directly. You can reach them at 718-543-5700 or by emailing their Crime Prevention unit aralph.cintron@nypd.org.

Please know that my office and I are here to continue to support you in every way we can during this difficult time. You can reach my office at biaggi@nysenate.gov or by calling 718-822-2049.

With Gratitude,

State Senator Alessandra Biaggi

Governor Cuomo Updates New Yorkers on State Vaccination Program

 

218,676 Doses Administered in the Last 24 Hours      

More than 1.2 Million Doses Administered Over Past Seven Days     

1 in 3 New Yorkers Fully Vaccinated   

Previous Restrictions on Vaccinating Individuals Outside of Specific Prioritization Groups Are Repealed to Reflect Open Access for All New Yorkers Ages 16 and Older      

Vaccine Dashboard Updated Daily on the State's Vaccine Program; Go to ny.gov/vaccinetracker  


 Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today updated New Yorkers on the state's vaccination program. 218,676 doses have been administered across the state's vast distribution network in the last 24 hours, and more than 1.2 million doses have been administered over the past seven days.  

"We're making great progress in our efforts to get every New Yorker vaccinated, but the rate of people getting vaccines is slowing," Governor Cuomo said. "The vaccine side is available - it's been tested, it's safe and it won't cost anything to get. We have a vast distribution network in place to get shots in arms and now every eligible adult can walk into a mass vaccination site without an appointment to get vaccinated. Nothing is standing in your way, so go get the vaccine. It's the best way to help one another and it is the ultimate weapon to win the war against COVID." 

All New York State mass vaccination sites are now open to eligible New Yorkers for walk-in vaccination on a first come first serve basis. The walk-in appointments are reserved for first doses only with second doses to be scheduled automatically after administration of the initial shot. In addition, all vaccine providers are encouraged to allow walk-in appointments for eligible New Yorkers. People who would prefer to schedule an appointment at a state-run mass vaccination site can do so on the Am I Eligible App or by calling 1-833-NYS-4-VAX. People may also contact their local health department, pharmacy, doctor or hospital to schedule appointments where vaccines are available, or visit vaccinefinder.org to find information on vaccine appointments near them.       

Additionally, the provisions that restricted access to specific providers or created penalties for vaccinations given to individuals outside of the required prioritization groups earlier in the process are repealed, to reflect open access for New Yorkers age 16 and over at all sites.       

STATEWIDE BREAKDOWN
Total doses administered - 15,389,526
Total doses administered over past 24 hours - 218,676
Total doses administered over past 7 days - 1,283,170
Percent of New Yorkers with at least one vaccine dose - 46.0%
Percent of New Yorkers with completed vaccine series - 34.1% 

Friday, April 30, 2021

Statement from Governor Cuomo on Deadly Incident in Israel

 

 "I am heartbroken by the tragedy that occurred overnight on Mount Meron in Israel. The loss of life as thousands celebrated a joyous holiday is devastating. New York sends its thoughts and prayers to the families of the victims and to the people of Israel and the Jewish community worldwide who are reeling from this horrific incident."


Watch out for Scams like Auto Warranties Services

 

 If you get a call from 937-5571-9135 it is a scam for you to purchase an auto warranty from Auto Warranties Services. When I received a call from them, I was asked for my car model and year, I said you have called me don't you know what kind of car I have? There was a click, because the person who called me knew that I knew this was a scam call to get me to buy something I didn't need. Where they get your name is from other scam artists who sell your name, phone number (it is very easy to find out a persons phone number) and address, which is also very easy to find.   

The New York City Department of Consumer Affairs, and the New York State Attorney General's office need to do a much better job at stopping these scam artists or good citizens of the city and state will be ripped off for what will amount to millions of dollars. That is why this Blog monitors the District Attorney's office, New York State Attorney's office, and U.S. Attorney's office to let you know when a scam artist is finally arrested, and what you might be able to do to recoup some of the money you were scammed out of. 

Scam Artists are out there to try to get you to buy something you don't need or just to take your money away from you. Be careful on your computer and when you get phone calls asking you to buy something.


Manhattan Man Arrested For $5.8 Million Scheme To Defraud Loan Program Intended To Help Small Businesses During COVID-19 Pandemic

 

 Audrey Strauss, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, William F. Sweeney Jr., Assistant Director-in-Charge of the New York Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), Amaleka McCall-Brathwaite, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Eastern Region Office of the Inspector General of the U.S. Small Business Administration (“SBA-OIG”), and Jonathan D. Larsen, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation (“IRS-CI”), and Patricia Tarasca, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Region Office of the Inspector General of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC-OIG”), announced today the unsealing of a criminal complaint charging MARCUS FRAZIER with major fraud against the United States, bank fraud, wire fraud, making false statements, and money laundering, for carrying out a fraudulent scheme to obtain $5.8 million in government-guaranteed loans designed to provide relief to small businesses during the novel coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic.  FRAZIER was arrested this morning and presented before United States Magistrate Judge Gabriel W. Gorenstein this afternoon.

U.S. Attorney Audrey Strauss said:  “As alleged, Marcus Frazier sought millions of dollars in unsecured SBA-guaranteed loans for which his businesses did not qualify.  Frazier allegedly did this by lying about the number of people employed by his businesses, the salaries they were paid, even that these employees existed.  Further, Frazier allegedly used the loan proceeds he did obtain not to pay allowable expenses, but rather, to fund his lavish lifestyle.  Now Marcus Frazier stands to learn the true cost of his alleged conduct.”

FBI Assistant Director William F. Sweeney Jr. said:  “As alleged, Frazier fraudulently sought approximately $5.8 million in PPP loans through a government program designed to help small businesses continue to pay their employees during the pandemic.  Rather than use the proceeds he ultimately secured for this purpose, he used the funds for personal expenses that included luxury hotels and travel.  With today’s action, the only place he’ll travel is the courthouse in Lower Manhattan to face justice and the possibility of a lengthy stay in federal prison.”

SBA-OIG Special Agent-in-Charge Amaleka McCall-Brathwaite said:  “Lying to gain access to economic stimulus funds will be met with justice.  Greed has no place in SBA’s programs that are intended to provide assistance to the nation’s small businesses struggling with the pandemic challenges.  I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners for their dedication and pursuit of justice.”

IRS-CI Special Agent-in-Charge Jonathan D. Larsen said:  “Instead of using these vital CARES Act funds to keep his purported businesses afloat, the defendant allegedly drowned himself in luxuries. I applaud the speed with which the federal law enforcement community uncovered these alleged abuses. The arrest today should be an unequivocal message about the consequences that await those engaged in related alleged criminal activities.”  

FDIC-OIG Special Agent-in-Charge Patricia Tarasca said:  “These charges represent blatant falsehoods, fraud, and other criminal conduct that sought to take advantage of tax dollars meant to help the nation recover from the ongoing pandemic.  We appreciate the work of our law enforcement partners on this important case.”

According to the allegations in the Complaint[1] unsealed today in Manhattan federal court:

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (“CARES”) Act is a federal law enacted on March 29, 2020, designed to provide emergency financial assistance to the millions of Americans who are suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.  One source of relief provided by the CARES Act was the authorization of up to $349 billion in forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other business expenses through the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”).  The PPP allows qualifying small businesses and other organizations to receive unsecured SBA-guaranteed loans.  PPP loan proceeds must be used by businesses on payroll costs, mortgage interest, rent, and/or utilities, among other specified expenses.  Pursuant to the CARES Act, the amount of PPP funds a business is eligible to receive is determined by the number of employees employed by the business and their average payroll costs.  Businesses applying for a PPP loan must provide documentation to confirm that they have in the past paid employees the compensation represented in the loan application. 

Between in or about May 2020 and in or about April 2021, FRAZIER submitted at least seven applications for PPP loans for various businesses he controlled (collectively, the “Frazier Companies”).  These applications relied upon fraudulent statements regarding the number of employees of each business and the amount of payroll involved in each business and were submitted, in many cases, alongside fake bank statements, designed to support FRAZIER’s false statements.  These fake bake statements included, among other things, fraudulent account statements for a checking account that showed balances far greater than the account actually held, and depicted payroll withdrawals that never occurred.  FRAZIER also submitted lists of employees on the purported payrolls of the Frazier Companies, which included names and Social Security numbers that do not match the records of the Social Security Administration, suggesting that FRAZIER fabricated the employee records.  On at least one occasion, FRAZIER also provided documents purporting to show that one of the Frazier Companies had been in existence for approximately 10 years.  In truth and in fact, however, the corporate entity had not been registered until on or about July 2020, months after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

FRAZIER sought more than approximately $5.8 million in PPP loans and was awarded at least approximately $2.17 million.  A substantial portion of the funds awarded were spent not on payroll for the Frazier Companies but, rather, on FRAZIER’s personal expenses.  During the period between on or about June 18, 2020, shortly after his first PPP loan was funded, and on or about April 7, 2021, FRAZIER utilized PPP funds to spend approximately $124,982 on hotels, including more than approximately $88,791 at a luxury hotel located in Miami, Florida.  During the same period, FRAZIER spent approximately $63,000 on restaurants and food service, approximately $17,000 on transportation with Uber, approximately $16,519 on airline travel, and approximately $11,000 on clothing.  During this same period, FRAZIER collected approximately $21,000 in unemployment benefits.    

FRAZIER, 47, of New York, New York York, is charged in the Complaint with (1) major fraud against the United States, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1031, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison; (2) bank fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1349, which carries a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison ; (3) wire fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1343, which carries a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison; (4) making false statements to a bank, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1014, which carries a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison; (5) making false statements, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1001, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison; (6) making false statements to the SBA, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 645, which carries a maximum sentence of two years in prison and (7) money laundering, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1957, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.  The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant would be determined by the judge.

Ms. Strauss praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI, SBA-OIG, IRS-CI, and FDIC-OIG in this case.

The charges contained in the Complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

 [1] As the introductory phase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint, and the description of the Complaint set forth herein, constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.

247 Days and Counting, A Three Day Weekend

 


I can enjoy another three day weekend as I have no Press Conference with those pesky reporters. They ask some great questions, but the also ask some stupid questions. What do I care about Scott Stringer's past failed love life. I have a city to run through a pandemic. Everyone have a good weekend, and remember July 1st we will be open for normal business, that includes the July 4th Macy's/Amazon fireworks show

Additional Leaders Of Latin Kings Set Charged In Manhattan Federal Court With Racketeering, Narcotics, And Firearms Offenses

 

Audrey Strauss, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, William F. Sweeney Jr., Assistant Director-in-Charge of the New York Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) and Dermot Shea, the Commissioner of the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”), announced the unsealing of a fifteen-count Superseding Indictment charging 18 defendants with committing various racketeering, narcotics, and firearms offenses, as well as violent crimes in aid of racketeering.  Eleven of the defendants were previously indicted in December 2019 by a grand jury in the Southern District of New York with racketeering conspiracy, narcotics conspiracy, and possessing firearms in furtherance of a narcotics conspiracy.  Five of the seven newly-indicted defendants were arrested today and will be presented before U.S. Magistrate Judge Gabriel W. Gorenstein in Manhattan federal court.  Defendant MARK WOODS, a/k/a “Smokey,” is currently in state custody and will be presented at a later date.  Defendant WILLIAM GONZALEZ, a/k/a “Bori,” remains at large.  The case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge Valerie E. Caproni.

The defendants arrested today include the most senior members—known as the “Dons”—of a Latin Kings set currently operating in New York. 

U.S. Attorney Audrey Strauss said:  “As alleged in the Superseding Indictment, the defendants in this case include the leaders of a violent set of the Latin Kings gang.  They are alleged to have engaged in acts of violence, robberies, narcotics trafficking, and the use of firearms.  Thanks to the efforts of our partners at the FBI and NYPD, the defendants now face federal charges for these very serious crimes.”

As alleged in the Superseding Indictment unsealed today in Manhattan federal court and statements made in court filings[1]:

CARMELO VELEZ, a/k/a “Jugg,” CHRISTOPHER RODRIGUEZ, a/k/a “Taz,” LUIS SEPULVEDA, a/k/a “Red,” EMMANUEL BONAFE, a/k/a “Eazy,” ALBERTO BORGES, a/k/a “AB,” JUAN HERNANDEZ, a/k/a “Guerra,” JESUS HERNANDEZ, a/k/a “Goldo,” EZEQUIEL OSPINA, a/k/a “Izzy,” RAIMUNDO NIEVES, a/k/a “Double-R,” DEESHUNTEE STEVENS, a/k/a “Kay,” HECTOR BONAPARTE, a/k/a “June,” DIEGO MATEO, a/k/a “Casa,” JUPANKY PIMENTEL, a/k/a “Panky,” WILLIAM GONZALEZ, a/k/a “Bori,” MARK WOODS, a/k/a “Smokey,” RICARDO RICUARTE, a/k/a “Nino,” RAUL CUELLO, a/k/a “2B,” and PAUL CUELLO, a/k/a “Flip,” are members and associates of a racketeering enterprise known as the Latin Kings, and specifically, the set, or “tribe” of the Latin Kings known as the Black Mob, which operates in the Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and Long Island.  In order to enrich the enterprise, protect and expand its criminal operations, enforce discipline among its members, and retaliate against members of rival gangs, members and associates of the Black Mob committed, conspired, attempted, and threatened to commit acts of violence; distributed and possessed with intent to distribute narcotics, including heroin, fentanyl, and crack; committed robberies; and obtained, possessed, and used firearms.  Some of the defendants are also charged with committing assaults in aid of racketeering, including assaults in connection with gunpoint robberies of drug dealers and gambling parlors. 

The Black Mob has a recognized leadership hierarchy and a code of conduct that members must follow.  The leadership structure resembles the traditional leadership structure of other Latin King tribes.  Leaders in the Black Mob are referred to as “Crowns,” with the respective Crowns ranked as “First Crown,” “Second Crown,” etc.  The gang’s leadership structure also includes “Coppos,” which are the Black Mob members in charge of members in a certain geographic borough.  Even higher than the Crowns and Coppos are the “Dons.”  The Dons are either founding members of the Black Mob or longtime members who have earned a higher level of respect.   As alleged, three of the Dons—MATEO, PIMENTEL, and GONZALEZ—and four Crowns or Coppos—RICUARTE, WOODS, and the CUELLO brothers—have been charged in the Superseding Indictment.

Charts containing the names, charges, and maximum penalties for the defendants are set forth below.  The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the judge. The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the judge.

Ms. Strauss praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI and NYPD. 

This case is being handled by the Office’s Narcotics Unit.  Assistant United States Attorneys Adam Hobson, Elinor Tarlow, and David Robles are in charge of the prosecution.

The charges contained in the Superseding Indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.        

COUNT 

DEFENDANT(S) 

MAX. TERM OF IMPRISONMENT 

Count One:  Conspiracy to Commit Racketeering (18 U.S.C. §§ 1962(d), 1963) 

All defendants except STEVENS and BONAPARTE 

Life imprisonment 

Count Two: Narcotics Conspiracy (21 U.S.C. §§ 846, 841(b)(1)(A)) 

All defendants 

Life imprisonment; Mandatory minimum sentence of ten years 

Count Three: Brandishing and Discharging Firearms in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Offense  (18 U.S.C. §§ 924(c)(1)(A) and 2) 

All defendants except STEVENS and BONAPARTE 

Life imprisonment; Mandatory minimum sentence of ten years, which must run consecutively to any other sentence 

Count Four: Possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense (18 U.S.C. §§ 924(c)(1)(A) and 2) 

STEVENS and BONAPARTE 

Life imprisonment; Mandatory minimum sentence of five years, which must run consecutively to any other sentence 

Count Five: Assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering (18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(3) and 2) 

WOODS 

Twenty years’ imprisonment 

Count Six: Brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence (18 U.S.C. §§ 924(c)(1)(A) and 2) 

WOODS 

Life imprisonment; Mandatory minimum sentence of seven years, which must run consecutively to any other sentence 

Count Seven: Assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering (18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(3) and 2) 

VELEZ, RODRIGUEZ, SEPULVEDA, BONAFE, JESUS HERNANDEZ, PIMENTEL, and WOODS 

Twenty years’ imprisonment 

Count Eight: Assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering (18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(3) and 2) 

WOODS 

Twenty years’ imprisonment 

Count Nine: Brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence (18 U.S.C. §§ 924(c)(1)(A) and 2) 

WOODS 

Life imprisonment; Mandatory minimum sentence of seven years, , which must run consecutively to any other sentence 

Count Ten: Assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering (18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(3) and 2) 

WOODS 

Twenty years’ imprisonment 

Count Eleven: Brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence (18 U.S.C. §§ 924(c)(1)(A) and 2) 

WOODS 

Life imprisonment; Mandatory minimum sentence of seven years, which must run consecutively to any other sentence 

Count Twelve: Assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering (18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(3) and 2) 

VELEZ, SEPULVEDA, WOODS 

Twenty years’ imprisonment 

Count Thirteen: Brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence (18 U.S.C. §§ 924(c)(1)(A) and 2) 

VELEZ, SEPULVEDA, WOODS 

Life imprisonment; Mandatory minimum sentence of seven years, which must run consecutively to any other sentence 

Count Fourteen: Assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering (18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(3) and 2) 

WOODS, OSPINA 

Twenty years’ imprisonment 

Count Fifteen: Brandishing and Discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence (18 U.S.C. §§ 924(c)(1)(A) and 2) 

WOODS, OSPINA 

Life imprisonment; Mandatory minimum sentence of ten years, which must run consecutively to any other sentence 

 


[1]
 As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Superseding Indictment constitutes only allegations, and every fact described herein should be treated as an allegation.